The Ducati 1198 was a high-performance sport bike introduced by the Italian manufacturer Ducati in 2009. This model replaced the Ducati 1098 and brought significant improvements in power, design, and handling. Produced until 2011, the 1198 was discontinued to make way for its successor, the Ducati 1199 Panigale. During its short production run, the Ducati 1198 was well-regarded in the global motorcycle community for its aggressive performance and cutting-edge features.
The discontinuation of the Ducati 1198 was part of Ducati's natural evolution in their superbike lineup, as the company moved toward more advanced engineering and lightweight construction found in the Panigale series. While the 1198 was no longer in production, Ducati continued to sell newer models such as the Panigale V2, Panigale V4, and Streetfighter series in Pakistan through various import channels and enthusiasts' dealerships. Though inactive, the Ducati 1198 remained a desirable collectible and high-performance motorcycle in the Pakistani superbike scene.
Ducati 1198 Specifications
The Ducati 1198 featured a liquid-cooled, L-twin cylinder, 4-valve per cylinder Desmodromic engine with a displacement of 1198.4 cc. It produced approximately 170 horsepower at 9,750 rpm and 132 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, making it one of the most powerful superbikes of its time.
The motorcycle was equipped with a 6-speed transmission and a dry multi-plate clutch. Its frame was constructed using a tubular steel Trellis frame, which contributed to its lightweight yet rigid structure. The front suspension consisted of Showa 43 mm fully adjustable upside-down forks, while the rear included a fully adjustable Showa monoshock.
In terms of dimensions, the Ducati 1198 had a wheelbase of 1,430 mm, a seat height of approximately 820 mm, and a dry weight of 171 kg. It came with a fuel tank capacity of 15.5 liters, suitable for its high-performance riding characteristics. The braking system included Brembo components with dual front discs and a single disc at the rear. Higher-end variants such as the 1198 S and 1198 SP featured traction control and data acquisition systems to enhance rider control and track performance.
Ducati 1198 Design and Features
The Ducati 1198 carried the iconic Ducati superbike design language, which included a sharp and aggressive front fairing, a single-sided swingarm, and a compact tail section. Its muscular fuel tank and low-mounted handlebars offered a race-oriented stance that emphasized speed and control.
The 1198 featured twin under-seat exhausts and minimalist bodywork, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and contributing to a distinctive appearance. It was offered in multiple color schemes depending on the variant, including the signature Ducati Red and Pearl White.
The bike also came equipped with a digital instrumentation panel that provided vital information such as speed, rpm, gear position, and engine diagnostics. Higher-end versions like the 1198 S included Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Data Analyzer (DDA), enabling performance tracking and real-time adjustments. With a clear focus on competitive riding, the Ducati 1198 was engineered for experienced motorcyclists who demanded precision, control, and performance.
Ducati 1198 Fuel Average
The Ducati 1198 offered a real-world fuel average of around 12 to 15 km/l, depending on road conditions and riding style. Being a performance-focused superbike, fuel efficiency was not its primary characteristic. Riders who used the 1198 for urban commuting often experienced slightly lower mileage, while highway riding under moderate throttle yielded better results.
Ducati 1198 Competitors
During its production run from 2009 to 2011, the Ducati 1198 competed with several top-tier superbikes from leading Japanese manufacturers. Its closest competitors included the Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR, Suzuki GSX-R1000, and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. These bikes featured inline-four engines and different chassis dynamics, while the Ducati 1198 stood out with its L-twin engine configuration and racing-oriented setup.
In Pakistan, these rival models were also available through private imports and catered to a similar niche of motorcycle enthusiasts. Despite the competition, the Ducati 1198 distinguished itself with its Italian styling, unique engine sound, and the inclusion of advanced rider aids like traction control and data logging in its higher variants.
Is Ducati 1198 worth buying?
In 2025, the Ducati 1198 remained a popular option for collectors and superbike enthusiasts in Pakistan. Although it was no longer in production, its outstanding performance, aggressive design, and historical value made it a sought-after choice in the used bike market. Buyers, however, needed to consider several factors such as limited parts availability, relatively high maintenance costs, and the need for experienced handling due to its race-oriented nature.
For those looking for a unique, powerful, and visually striking motorcycle with a legacy in Ducati's superbike history, the Ducati 1198 remained a worthwhile investment. Riders with previous experience in high-displacement motorcycles and access to specialized service could still enjoy the full potential of this iconic model. Its resale value was influenced by overall condition, variant, and service records, but it continued to enjoy niche demand in Pakistan's enthusiast community.